Perception of family support among low-income elderly and associated factors

Abstract

This study aims to identify the perception of family support among low-income elderly and associated factors. It is cross- sectional study with a sample of 235 elderly residents of Jequié, Bahia, Brazil. The instrument consisted of: demographics and health; Mini-Mental State Examination, Barthel Index, and Perceived Family Support Inventory. Statistical analysis was performed with a p<0.05 level of significance, upon completion of the Chi-Square. There was a statistically significant difference between the averages for Consistency-affection domain and presence of consequences variables (p=0.042) and impairment of basic daily living activities (p=0.033); and between Family-adaptation domain averages and illiterate education levels (p=0.012); and between the Autonomy domain and married state variables (p=0.013), completion of treatment (p=0.032), and impairment of basic daily living activities (p=0.011). Thus, it is evident that most seniors tested showed impaired perception of family support.